booksthrilljessica's reviews
416 reviews

If you’re searching for a book that will sweep you away into an enchanting dark retelling of beloved Grimm fairy tales, this one is a must-read. From the very first page, I was hooked. Barden’s ability to weave multiple fairy tale characters into a single, cohesive story is pure magic. The characters are compelling, and the world-building is absolutely flawless, leaving me eager for more of Eveline’s journey. I can’t wait to see what happens in book 2!

Reading Divergent and Hunger Games as a young adult I never knew I have been waiting for an adult version that gives me the same feeling. This book has gripped my soul in a way I desperately needed. Filled with deadly trials, love, betrayal and loyalty this book will transport the reader into a world where they want to deconstruct the City as much as we all wanted to for District 1. 

The character development and world building done by Sherron is so palpable that the reader can not help but envision themselves along with Faye’s as she battles in the trials. I cannot wait to read the rest of this series and follow Faye as she navigates the new trial she has set for herself.

Reading Divergent and The Hunger Games as a young adult, I never realized I’d been waiting for an adult version that would recall those same feelings. This book gripped my soul in a way I didn’t know I needed. Packed with deadly trials, love, betrayal, and loyalty, it immerses readers in a world where you’ll feel just as compelled to dismantle the City as we all did District 1.

Sherron’s character development and world-building are so vivid and tangible that you can’t help but picture yourself alongside Faye as she fights her way through the trials. I’m eagerly anticipating the rest of this series and can’t wait to follow Faye as she faces the new challenges she’s set for herself.

*Thank you to Reese Sherron for the ARC copy. I am freely leaving my honest review.

This paranormal, gothic tale unfolds in a dual POV spanning across two timelines. I loved following these storylines and speculating on how they would eventually intertwine. Both MFC characters within this story are on a journey to escape oppression and embrace their true selves, each harboring similar secrets. I was deeply invested in their stories and appreciated how they discovered purpose and self-love along the way. However, the pacing felt uneven, with the first 75% and the final 25% of the book feeling somewhat disjointed, almost like they belonged in separate stories. If you enjoy dark, gothic love stories, this one is worth checking out!


*Thank you to Kiersten White, ​​Random House Publishing Group - Ballantine | Del Rey and Netgalley for the ARC copy. I am freely leaving my honest review.

This book is ideal for middle-grade readers who loved Upside Down Magic and are ready for a more mature story. The story begins with Lavinia (Vin), who struggles to fit in at every magical school she attends. After being expelled once again, she’s sent to the Last Hope School for Magical Delinquents. There, Vin finally finds friends and the freedom to embrace her chaotic magic. But when mysterious attacks on students begin, Vin is quickly blamed. Can she and her friends uncover the real culprit before it’s too late?

This book weaves powerful messages for young readers through themes of magic, friendship, and self-acceptance. For anyone who’s ever felt like an outcast, Preto’s powerful message is that even amongst loneliness there is still hope in friendship and embracing who you truly are.

*Thank you to Nicki Pau Preto, ​​PENGUIN GROUP Penguin Young Readers Group | Viking Books for Young Readers and Netgalley for the ARC copy. I am freely leaving my honest review.

In this captivating tale of fated mates told from dual perspectives. Ava, a young woman with a weak heart has a limited time to live, and is  determined to make the most of every moment. Logan, a shapeshifter, is on a mission to find his fated mate to secure the survival of his pack. Their separate paths collide after a fateful night lands Ava in the hospital, intertwining their destinies in unexpected ways.

Set in a world where folklore creatures walk among us, this story pulls you into its magical realm. 

Prepare your TBR list for this steamy, possessive MMC, magical elements, and found family in this epic paranormal romance!

*Thank you to Lucia Skye for the ARC copy. I am freely leaving my honest review.

In this Gothic novel, Emeline Fitzpatrick is in love and desperate for a proposal before her guardian marries her off to the wealthiest suitor available. With only one option left, she is sent to wed the elusive Captain Graves, a man with two previous marriages that ended in tragedy and now seeking a new wife.

However, upon arriving at the eerie seaside manor, Faraday House, Emeline discovers that the second Mrs. Graves is still alive—though barely. As the truth unravels, Emeline must confront a chilling question: What is happening to Captain Graves’ wives, and is she next?

This gothic mystery is a story of betrayal, self-discovery, and a united sisterhood that has captivated me. Emeline’s journey through heartbreak is deeply relatable, and the haunting atmosphere of Faraday House, paired with its unsettling character dynamics, keeps readers on edge. You’ll be gripped by both the unfolding mystery and the terrifying fate that may await the Captain’s new bride.

*Thank you to B.R. Myers, William Morrow and Netgalley for the copy. I am freely leaving my honest review.

I did not realize this book was part of a series. However, I feel it can be read as a standalone.  As a huge fan of Pride and Prejudice, I was thrilled to dive into this modern adaptation of the classic. While it stays true to the original in many ways, there are clever changes to make it relatable for a younger modern audience.

One twist I particularly enjoyed was how Darcy “bailed” her sister out of trouble—hint: it’s not a runaway wedding this time! The enemies-to-lovers dynamic between Darcy and Elizabeth was masterfully done, with just the right amount of spice I didn’t know I needed.

*Thank you to Audrey Bellezza and Emily Harding, ​​Gallery Books and Netgalley for the copy. I am freely leaving my honest review.

In the second installment of the House of Marionne series, readers are swept back into Quell Marionne’s magical journey as she searches for her mother. Following the explosive conclusion of book one, Quell gains access to the elusive House of Perl, where she learns that her magic is not something to fear but to celebrate. Yet, danger still looms as she is hunted by her former lover, Jordan Wexton, who is torn between love and duty.

This is a fantastic read for young adult audiences. Free of spice, the story focuses on themes of self-discovery, found family, and the wonder of magic.

*Thank you to J. Elle, ​​PENGUIN GROUP Penguin Young Readers Group | Razorbill and Netgalley for the copy. I am freely leaving my honest review.

A female version of Dexter in all its glory! I absolutely loved this book with its sharp, witty internal humor of Cordelia. Her thoughts about men are so relatable that many readers might find themselves having the same thoughts about men.

Cordelia’s loyalty to her best friend, Diane, and Diane’s daughter knows no bounds—even if it means breaking her own rules. When she decides to eliminate Diane’s latest fling to protect them, her carefully constructed life begins to unravel, spiraling her into chaos.

Cordelia’s inner dialogue offers fascinating insight into her character, making it surprisingly easy to empathize with her choices. I also enjoyed the mystery of her past and the mental anguish she experiences at the thought of losing her only human connection, Diane.

The big question remains: Is Cordelia a hero, a villain, or simply a killer? You’ll have to decide for yourself.

*Thank you to Emma C. Wells, ​​Poisoned Pen Press and Netgalley for the copy. I am freely leaving my honest review.

This book felt like a middle-of-the-road read for me. While it had some interesting aspects, it fell short in fully exploring the characters and the plot surrounding Lady Macbeth. That said, it was a quick and easy read, and I did enjoy the heartfelt bond between Macbeth and her companions.

*Thank you to Val McDermid, ​​Grove Atlantic | Atlantic Monthly Press and Netgalley for the ARC copy. I am freely leaving my honest review.